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But the Queensland and Philippine lawyer said the former Boyne Island man's saving grace could be the Australian government's intervention.

A campaign has begun, organised by Mr Birthisel's family and friends, calling for the Australian Government to plea for a "speedy trial". A letter, right, has been sent to the Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.

"With any intervention by a foreign government, especially Australia which is well-respected by the Philippines, makes an impact," Mr Oyson said.

Mr Oyson, who studied law in 1998, was not surprised by Mr Birthisel's three-year wait without a trial.

"That is quite typical in the Philippines unfortunately," he said.

"There are a shortage of judges in the system and there are just too many cases, both civil and criminal," he said.

He said the added "economic sabotage" charge on top of the illegal recruitment was considered "large scale" which by law is defined by three or more individuals involved.

Ms Bishop's office was contacted for a response to the letter but had not replied at time of print.